fbpx

How Attack & Release Actually Work

I recently watched a manufacturer’s video on a new compressor that’s coming out, and once again the way Attack and Release actually function was explained incorrectly. I can’t say I was surprised because these controls get misunderstood and confused by a lot of engineers and manufacturers alike.

So I’m reposting a couple of videos I’ve created on this subject. First up is a visual way to actually see what Attack and Release do which you’ll discover is quite different from the way most people describe these controls.

This second video is a way to hear what Attack and Release do. This is what matters most if you’re going to make the most of these controls.

David Stagl

2 Responses to “How Attack & Release Actually Work

  • Duane Burkholder
    4 years ago

    Dave, so in your first video you have a medium knee setting on the Fabfilter compressor. What do those curves look like on hard knee and then also on soft knee compression. The first video was great by the way, super helpful to get a picture in the mind as to what is happening.

    • David Stagl
      4 years ago

      I don’t remember if I looked at that, but in theory it should change the curve a bit at the onset of compression.